Theater lovers catching a show at Santiago’s new Teatro Municipal de Las Condes will be treated to an intimate viewing experience and crystal clear sound.

At 7500-square meters, the theater can seat up to 874 people at a distance of no more than 25 meters from the stage, on an incline that will ensure unobstructed views.

Meanwhile, an advanced electro-acoustic system will ensure optimal sound for the audience. More than 100 musicians will be accommodated in the pit in front of the stage.

A rendition of “The Rain in Spain” and other hits from the musical “My Fair Lady,” which first opened on Broadway in the United States in 1956 will be the first songs heard at the new theater when it opens to the public on September 1.

Up to three shows a day can be put on thanks to the theater’s three mechanized platforms that also allow for speedy set changes and a variety of concerts, cinema and plays.

The idea for the theater was first conceived six years ago and ground was broken on it in 2007, when the municipal government decided the Santiago borough of Las Condes should be a site of quality theater before the country’s Bicentenary, which will be celebrated September 18.

Mayor of Las Condes, Francisco de la Maza, said the new theater features the latest technology to enhance the viewing experience.

“This theater is known for its great versatility,” Mayor de la Maza said. “It can have up to three performances in one day and is designed to meet the technical needs of the best shows of the world.”

With the opening of the multi-use facility, Santiago now has two top-class venues for theater. The Santiago Municipal Theater, which first opened in 1857 in central Santiago, was recently reopened following renovations.

In addition to “My Fair Lady,” starring Amaya Forch and Julio Milostich, the Beethoven Foundation will put on a concert Oct. 6, with more shows throughout the year.

The opening of the theatre in September comes on the heels of a celebration of cinema throughout the city, as Santiago is hosting its sixth international film festival. Movies from more than 30 countries are being shown in 15 cinemas around Chile’s capital.

For more information about the theater’s technical aspects and upcoming shows, in Spanish, click here.